User Rating:  / 1

The Small Business Administration’s District Director, Joe McClure, presented an award in Billings to Big Sky Economic Development Corporation naming the organization as Montana’s 2011 Top Performing Certified Development Company Lender. Brandon Berger and Pam Bolin accepted on behalf of the organization. Big Sky EDC approved 16 loans totaling $12,567,000. SBA 504 loans are used by small businesses to finance owner-occupied commercial real estate and equipment.

Big Sky Economic Development Corporation was designated a “Certified Development Company” in 2005 by the SBA, which gave the organization the credentials needed to start a 504 loan program. This year’s award is the third time Big Sky EDC has taken home the honor, also winning in 2008 and 2009.

Brandon Berger is the Director of Business Finance for Big Sky EDC and came onboard just after the organization became a CDC. He says it’s a real honor to be named as the state’s top performing lender, “It’s a reflection of everything our department and our entire organization works towards. But, the most rewarding part is knowing how we’ve helped small business in Yellowstone County and throughout Montana. We see firsthand the hard work that goes into building or growing a company and it’s a neat feeling to know we’re a part of that.”

Montana SBA District Director Joe McClure agrees. “This is a testament that small business is the engine that fuels the economy and Big Sky Economic Development is at the forefront of helping small businesses grow and create jobs across the state Montana.”

Big Sky EDC recently received notification that the organization became an SBA Accredited Lending Program which provides expedited loan approval and closing from the SBA. Accreditation is earned through a strong, reliable performance and meeting a minimum loan threshold.